For almost all of our childhoods, the most exciting day of the year was October 31st, Halloween. We would dress up in our best costumes, go out with our friends and parents, and ask our neighbors for candy while avoiding that one house that everyone knew gave packets of carrots.

Now, this classic tradition is being confined to a certain age group, is this the route our country is going? New Brunswick, New Jersey is paving the way for setting new age limits on Trick or Treating. In a recent article, the city broke the news that they will fine any person over 16 that is caught Trick or treating in a costume. The city will also increase the fine if they catch anybody over 16 in a costume after 8 o’clock. When asked why the city is saying that safety is their number one concern. They believe that if they limit the amount of older kids in costumes then in turn that will cut down on the crime during Halloween.

Although safety may be an issue for some cities due to some teens dressing up and vandalizing houses, I do not think it is a threat that needs such irrational action from a city. This is a tradition that almost all of us have grown up with and I do not believe the government has the right to take it away. If the government takes away trick or treating then what is next? Some may say this is an overreaction, but this is an age-old tradition that has built some our best memories of childhood. Now I ask myself the question how do we stop other cities from taking up this new law.

First, I believe that we must show we don’t agree with actions. Come October 31st dress up in your most outlandish costume, get together with your friends, and go out to each house in your neighborhood and even venture to other neighborhoods. Ask all the houses for as much candy as you can get and show the city that you are having an awesome, and safe, time.

​Finally, for the people in New Brunswick, you all are the first to come across this issue and because of this the people of New Brunswick are on the frontline of fighting against the ban of our sacred trick or treating. If you are a parent, load up on candy and tell teenagers to come, in costumes to your house, and to the city of New Brunswick, relax, there is no age limit on loving free candy.